One of the most under-used and most desirable shade trees for the landscape is the blackgum tree (Nyssa sylvatica) which is native to east Texas. The most outstanding attributes of the blackgum tree is its glossy, brilliant red leaf color in the early fall. The leaves are oval shaped and are thin enough to let light shine through so that the tree appears to glow red. In the fall it is generally the first tree to turn red and is quite noticeable in yards in town and at the edge of woods in rural areas. Thus, if you want to get some nice fall color in your landscape it is recommended that this fall you plant a blackgum tree, which may also be called black tupelo in the nursery.
The tree is relatively slow growing but will respond well to applications of fertilizer. It prefers a sunny location but should do reasonably well in partial shade. The blackgum prefers an acid soil, is drought tolerant and does very well in moist bottomland soils. Its usual height is 50 to 75 feet although in rare situations it can grow to almost 150 feet high. It should be spaced about thirty feet from other trees of similar growth patterns. Thus, it is a nice size for small landscapes. It is also more resistant to air pollution than most trees.
Ed McGee, Smith County Master Gardener
Trees & Shrubs Index
Gardening Tips For Northeast Texas Index
East Texas Piney Woods Gardening Home Page